Why Your Garbage Disposal Smells (and the Best Way to Fix It)

Let’s face it: a smelly garbage disposal is one of the most unpleasant surprises in any kitchen. You clean it, you run it, and yet, why does my garbage disposal smell even after cleaning? If you’ve ever asked yourself this question, you’re not alone. Whether your garbage disposal smells like sewage or has a lingering funk, this guide will show you the best way to clean and keep your garbage disposal fresh. Plus, I’ll share some product recommendations (budget to premium) to make the job easier.

Keep It Fresh: The Real Reason You Should Clean Your Garbage Disposal

A clean garbage disposal isn’t just about avoiding bad smells; it’s about hygiene and functionality. Here’s why it’s important:

• Prevents Odors: Food particles and grease can rot, causing foul smells.
• Improves Performance: A clean disposal runs more efficiently.  
• Extends Lifespan: Regular maintenance prevents clogs and damage.
• Boosts Kitchen Hygiene: A fresh-smelling disposal makes your entire kitchen feel cleaner.  

So, let’s dive into the best way to clean a garbage disposal and banish those odors for good. 

I Tried Everything to Fix My Garbage Disposal, and This Finally Worked

A few months ago, I hosted a dinner party and proudly served a feast of pasta, garlic bread, and wine. The following day, my kitchen smelled like rotten garlic and wet socks. I thought, “Why does my garbage disposal smell even after cleaning?”  

I tried everything: hot water, soap, even yelling at it (don’t judge). But nothing worked. The smell lingered, and my kitchen felt like a crime scene.  

Then, I finally found the real solution:

• Scrubbing the Rubber Flaps: Food gunk was trapped under the rubber splash guard. A quick scrub with a brush and soapy water revealed hidden grime.  
• Baking Soda & Vinegar Fizz: This lifted the deep-seated odors and broke down residue inside the unit.  
• Citrus Peels & Ice Cubes: Running lemon peels and ice cubes through the disposal polished the blades and left a fresh scent.  

After these steps, the awful smell was gone entirely. The lesson? A simple rinse isn’t enough; you must clean the hidden spots deep. I make this part of my routine, and my kitchen has never smelled better! 

The Right Way to Clean Your Garbage Disposal (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

1. Flush with Hot Water

• Run hot water down the disposal for 30 seconds to loosen debris.  
• This is the first step in tackling how to get rid of the garbage disposal smell.

2. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

• Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by 1 cup of vinegar.  
• Let it fizz for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.  
• This DIY method is a classic for how to clean a garbage disposal with baking soda and vinegar.

3. Scrub the Rubber Flaps

• Lift the rubber flaps (if your disposal has them) and scrub with a brush and soapy water.  
• Food particles often get trapped here, causing odors.  

4. Add Citrus for Freshness

• Toss lemon or orange peels into the disposal and run it with cold water.  
• The natural oils leave a fresh scent and help clean the blades.  

5. Use a Garbage Disposal Cleaner

• Use a product like Glisten Disposer Care Foaming Cleaner or Plink Garbage Disposal Freshener & Cleaner for a deeper clean.
• These cleaners break down grease and eliminate odors effectively.  

Recommended Products for Cleaning Garbage Disposals

1. Budget: Glisten Disposer Care Foaming Cleaner (~$5–$6)

• Deep Clean & Odor Elimination: Say goodbye to stubborn buildup and foul smells in your kitchen sink and garbage disposal.  
• 360° Cleaning Action: Powerful foaming formula scrubs every surface, including sidewalls, blades, and the splash guard, for a truly deep clean.  
• Long-Lasting Freshness: Leaves your disposal smelling crisp and clean with a refreshing lemon scent.  
• Keeps Your Disposal Running Smoothly: Use weekly to prevent grime build-up and maintain peak performance.  
• Effortless & Effective: Designed to tackle tough messes, this cleaner delivers powerful results that exceed expectations.

2. Normal: Plink Garbage Disposal Freshener & Cleaner (~$8–$10)

• Eliminates Odors Instantly: Powerfully freshens your garbage disposal, keeping your kitchen smelling clean and inviting.  
• Deep-Cleans & Deodorizes: Washes away foul odors and grime, leaving behind a refreshing scent that lasts.  
• Fast & Hassle-Free: Just drop it in, run your disposal, and let it do the work, no scrubbing required!  
• Safe & Effective: Works with all garbage disposals, plumbing, and septic systems for worry-free cleaning. 

3. Premium: Grab Green Garbage Disposal Cleaner (bulk pack) (~$15–$20)

• Powerful & Natural Cleaning: Includes 4 bags (12 pods each of Grab Green Thyme with Fig Leaf Garbage Disposal Freshener & Cleaner (48 pods total). Convenient velcro closure bags no longer struggle with zip locks!  
• No Harsh Chemicals, Just Pure Clean: Tackles odors, loosens grime, and helps prevent clogs without toxic fumes or caustic chemicals. Safe for septic systems, plumbing, and your home.
• Refreshing Natural Scent: Infused with a soothing blend of thyme and fig leaf, these pods leave your kitchen smelling fresh without artificial masking agents.  
• Eco-Friendly & Family Safe: Made with plant- and mineral-based ingredients, free from phosphates, phthalates, chlorine, toxins, and dyes.
• Cruelty-Free & Made in the USA: Responsibly sourced, never tested on animals, and proudly crafted in the USA.

Additional Tips for a Fresh Garbage Disposal

1. Avoid Grease and Fibrous Foods

Grease can solidify and clog your disposal, while fibrous foods like celery can wrap around the blades.  

2. Run Cold Water

 Always run cold water when using the disposal to solidify grease and flush it away. 

3. Clean Regularly

Make cleaning your disposal part of your weekly kitchen routine.  

4. Use Ice Cubes

Toss a handful of ice cubes into the disposal to sharpen the blades and dislodge debris.  

5. Check for Leaks

If your garbage disposal smells like sewage, it could be due to a leak. Inspect the unit and call a plumber if needed.  

Conclusion: Say Goodbye to Smelly Garbage Disposals

A clean, fresh-smelling garbage disposal is within reach. By following the best way to clean a garbage disposal, whether using baking soda and vinegar, citrus peels, or a trusted cleaner like Glisten Disposer Care, you can keep your kitchen smelling great and your disposal running smoothly.  

So, the next time you wonder, “Why does my garbage disposal smell even after cleaning?” Remember these tips. Your nose (and your guests) will thank you!